Johor Bahru is a bustling city in Malaysia that offers many activities for tourists. Whether you’re looking for theme parks, shopping malls, or cultural experiences, Johor Bahru has something for everyone. With its proximity to Singapore, it’s a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of Malaysia.
One of the top attractions in Johor Bahru is its theme parks. Legoland Malaysia is a must-visit for families with children, with its many rides, shows, and exhibits. Another popular option is the Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark, which offers a variety of water slides and pools. For those seeking a more adrenaline-filled experience, there’s also the Skytrex Adventure Park, which features ziplines, obstacle courses, and more.
In addition to theme parks, Johor Bahru also has a rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many temples, mosques, and museums to learn more about the history and traditions of Malaysia. The Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque is an impressive landmark with intricate architecture and stunning city views. Overall, Johor Bahru is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment.
Top Attractions
Johor Bahru is a bustling city with various attractions to suit all interests. Here are some of the top attractions that visitors should not miss:
Legoland Malaysia
Legoland Malaysia is a theme park with more than 70 rides, shows, and attractions. It is a must-visit attraction for families with children. The park has several themed areas, including Lego City, Land of Adventure, Lego Kingdoms, and Lego Technic. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides such as The Dragon roller coaster, Aquazone Wave Racer, and Project X. The park also features a water park with slides and a lazy river.
Johor Bahru City Square
Johor Bahru City Square is a popular shopping mall in the city’s heart. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can shop for fashion, electronics, and souvenirs, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. The mall also features a cinema and a karaoke center.
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque
Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque is a beautiful mosque on top of a hill in the city. It was built in 1900 and features a mix of Moorish and Victorian architecture. Visitors can admire the mosque’s intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows. The mosque is open to visitors, but visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.
Johor Bahru has many other attractions, including museums, parks, and cultural sites. Visitors should plan to spend several days exploring the city to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.
Historical Sites
Johor Bahru has a rich history, and visitors can explore the city’s past by visiting its many historical sites. Here are three of the most significant historical sites in Johor Bahru:
Istana Besar
Istana Besar, also known as the Grand Palace, was built in 1866 and served as the official residence of the Johor Sultanate. The palace is an excellent example of Malay architecture with intricate carvings and ornate decorations. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the history of the Johor Sultanate.
Sultan Ibrahim Building
Sultan Ibrahim Building is a prominent landmark in Johor Bahru and one of the city’s tallest buildings. The building was constructed in the 1940s and served as the state secretariat until the 1990s. Today, it houses the Johor State Government offices, visitors can take a guided tour of the building and admire its impressive architecture.
Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple
Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is a unique temple in Johor Bahru that is entirely made of glass. The temple was built in 1996 and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. The temple’s interior is adorned with intricate glass sculptures depicting Hindu mythology scenes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple and learn about Hinduism.
Overall, Johor Bahru has many historical sites that are worth exploring. Visitors can learn about the city’s rich history by visiting these sites and better understand Johor Bahru’s cultural heritage.
Nature and Parks
Johor Bahru is home to several nature parks and green spaces that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are some of Johor Bahru’s top nature and park destinations.
Danga Bay
Danga Bay is a popular waterfront park located in Johor Bahru. The park offers a scenic view of the Straits of Johor and is a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Visitors can stroll on the boardwalk, enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawn, or take a boat ride to explore the nearby islands. Danga Bay is also home to several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of local and international cuisines.
Taman Merdeka
Taman Merdeka is a large recreational park in Johor Bahru’s heart. The park features a lake, a jogging track, a children’s playground, and several picnic areas. Visitors can rent bicycles or pedal boats to explore the park or simply relax and enjoy the lush greenery. Taman Merdeka is a popular spot for family outings and weekend picnics.
Gunung Pulai
Gunung Pulai is a forest reserve about 20 kilometers north of Johor Bahru. The reserve features a mountain with hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore the forest and observe the local flora and fauna. Gunung Pulai is a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Whether looking for a peaceful retreat or an outdoor adventure, Johor Bahru’s nature parks and green spaces offer something for everyone.
Shopping
Johor Bahru is a paradise for shoppers, with a wide variety of malls, markets, and outlets, and are some of the best places to shop in Johor Bahru.
KSL City Mall
KSL City Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in Johor Bahru, featuring over 500 retail stores, a cinema, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes. The mall is known for its affordable prices and popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Some popular stores at KSL City Mall include H&M, Uniqlo, and Sephora.
Aeon Mall Tebrau City
Aeon Mall Tebrau City is another popular shopping destination in Johor Bahru, offering many stores and entertainment options. The mall features over 200 retail outlets, a cinema, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Some popular stores at Aeon Mall Tebrau City include Adidas, Nike, and Levi’s.
Johor Premium Outlets
Watch station international signboard shop at Johor Premium OutletsFor those looking for luxury brands at discounted prices, Johor Premium Outlets is the place to go. Located just outside Johor Bahru, the outlet mall features over 130 stores offering designer brands such as Burberry, Coach, and Michael Kors. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy various dining options and entertainment at the outlet mall.
Whether looking for affordable fashion, luxury brands, or anything in between, Johor Bahru has something for everyone. With its wide variety of shopping options, it’s no wonder that the city is known as a shopper’s paradise.
Food and Dining
When it comes to food and dining, Johor Bahru has much to offer. From traditional Malay dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone. Here are a few places that are worth trying:
Restaurant Todak
Restaurant Todak is a popular seafood restaurant located in the city center. It is known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. The restaurant has a wide selection of dishes, including crab, prawns, squid, and fish. The seafood is cooked to perfection and served with a variety of sauces. The restaurant is always busy, so making a reservation in advance is best.
Kacang Pool Haji
Kacang Pool Haji is a small restaurant specializing in Kacang Pool, a traditional Johor dish. It is made with boiled kidney beans, minced meat, and various spices. The dish is served with bread and a side of sambal, and Kacang Pool Haji is known for its delicious Kacang Pool and friendly service.
Hiap Joo Bakery
Hiap Joo Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It is a small bakery that has been around for over 100 years. The bakery is known for its freshly baked banana bread, made using a traditional wood-fired oven. The bread is soft, moist, and full of flavor, and Hiap Joo Bakery also sells various other baked goods, including buns, cakes, and pastries.
Overall, Johor Bahru is a food lover’s paradise. These are just a few places to eat in the city. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, traditional Malay dishes, or something sweet, there is something for everyone.
Nightlife
Johor Bahru is a city with a vibrant nightlife scene. Plenty of bars, clubs, and other entertainment options make it a great place to spend an evening out. Here are a few of the top nightlife spots in Johor Bahru.
The Ice Bar JB
The Ice Bar JB is a unique bar made entirely from ice. Located in the heart of Johor Bahru, this bar offers a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else. The bar is chilly -10 degrees Celsius, so dress warmly. Visitors can enjoy various drinks, including beer, cocktails, and shots, all served in ice glasses. Ice sculptures and other frozen decorations throughout the bar make it a truly unforgettable experience.
The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen
The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen is a popular restaurant and bar known for its trendy atmosphere and delicious food. The bar serves a variety of craft beers, wines, and cocktails, making it a great place to grab a drink with friends. The restaurant also offers a menu of fusion cuisine, featuring dishes that blend local and international flavors. The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for a night out.
Finnegan’s Irish Pub
Finnegan’s Irish Pub is a classic pub that offers a taste of Ireland in the heart of Johor Bahru. The pub serves a variety of beers, including Guinness and other Irish favorites. There is also a pub food menu, featuring classic dishes like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. Finnegan’s Irish Pub has a lively atmosphere, with live music and other entertainment on select nights. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a pint after a long day.
Overall, Johor Bahru has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene that will surely please visitors of all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience at The Ice Bar JB, a trendy atmosphere at The Replacement Lodge & Kitchen, or a taste of Ireland at Finnegan’s Irish Pub, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
